“We are all monsters, Castil. Born from the things our parents shoved onto our shoulders, forced us to be. The only difference is if we let ourselves succumb to that monster, or if we let it power us instead.” Vrea has the White Knight, Castil Moordian enslaved to her by his own volition. Something that she once wanted more than anything else in the world, especially as he traded his own life for the sake of his younger brother, Rian’s. But as she wars with herself over the confusing feelings that surround the Golden Heir, she finds herself struggling with having the Argent Prince under her command. A desire she once held above all else, only to find herself unsure as she starts to chip away at the protective shell he’s put up. Perhaps everything wasn’t as it seemed, and perhaps it’s not Rian that Vrea cares for, but Castil.
E. D. Lee is a gothic vampire from Ohio who became a self-published author. She started her career in writing with her fantasy romance duology, the Shadowfyre Duology. She has multiple series that are perfect for dark fantasy romance readers who enjoy spice. The Frosted Fae Series holds a special place in her heart and she continuously spreads her wings with standalone novels, new series and branching out into different categories for fantastic stories!
This is a thrilling, suspense-filled ride from start to finish. Lee masterfully creates a story that grips you and doesn’t let go. The characters are compelling and the eerie atmosphere is perfect for fans of dark fantasy. This picks up right where Nightingale leaves us. Every twist leaves you second-guessing what’s real and what’s not, keeping you on the edge of your seat. I can’t wait for Book 3!! I need it now!
Nightmare is the sequel to Nightingale and it was just as good! We get answers to a lot of the questions from the first one and they were heartbreaking and satisfying all at once. Plus, answers to questions I didn't know I needed until I started reading this one.
Continuing Vrea's story right where we left off (with some flashbacks at the start), I was instantly swept into Vrea's world again. I went through a whole range of emotions, amusement, stress, sorrow, and nausea (in the best way). I gasped, smirked, and threw my hands in the air. Not necessarily all in that order! We're treated to a fascinating plot, engaging characters, and 🔥🔥 spice.
She never fails to impress! I now have to wait for Book 3! This author knows how to place you in a world and feel like you are living it! 5 stars, if I could give more I would!
Nightmare by E.D. Lee is a gripping continuation of Nightingale, offering a fresh perspective on events while deepening the characters and their relationships. Instead of picking up exactly where we left off, the story takes a step back, giving more context to Vrea and Castil’s dynamic. This shift is powerful—we finally see their history, how Castil fell in love with the enemy, and why Vrea despises him so much.
One of the most striking aspects of this book is how it mirrors the first but reverses the roles. In Nightingale, Vrea was a prisoner in Carylim, where Rian shaped the narrative in his favor. Now, we’re in Niroula, where Vrea is the princess and Castil is her slave. This contrast adds depth to both characters. Vrea, despite her position of power, is surprisingly considerate—making it clear from the start that, no matter what else happens, Castil will not face sexual violence under her rule. This moment is particularly impactful given her own years of captivity, where she lived in constant fear of assault, especially from Castil—the one man who regularly visited her. The way this shifts their understanding of each other is one of the novel’s strongest moments.
The court politics in Niroula are another highlight. The Queen is still ruthless, but she feels more human, even making a compelling case for why the war continues. Vrea’s relationships with her siblings are also more complex compared to the brutal Carylimian court. While there is still violence, the focus is more on survival than outright slaughter.
Compared to the first book, Nightmare features more discussions of sex—not for spice, but as a means of control, distraction, and, eventually, connection. The slow evolution of Vrea and Castil’s relationship is handled beautifully. Their first full intimate scene comes late in the book, allowing time for trust to build. I especially liked that Castil, despite his long-standing feelings for Vrea, is given space to see her as she truly is, rather than the idealized version he once imagined. Meanwhile, Vrea’s realization of Rian’s repeated abandonment adds depth to her growing bond with Castil, who never leaves her side, even when he has every reason to.
Another standout relationship is between Castil and Teminos. Teminos doesn’t see Castil as a weapon or an enemy, but as a person who cares for Vrea. Their dynamic adds emotional weight, particularly in the way Teminos helps Castil recognize his own worth. One of the most poignant aspects of Castil’s character is how he struggles to see himself as anything other than broken, despite others constantly proving otherwise.
The pacing reflects the story’s timeline, spanning months rather than days. Some parts move away from the central romance, focusing instead on court life and politics, but I loved how this grounded the story in reality—no matter what happens personally, life goes on. The unexpected plot twists were another highlight. There’s no heavy foreshadowing; instead, events unfold naturally, making each revelation hit harder.
Overall, Nightmare is a fantastic continuation of the series. It expands on Nightingale in all the right ways, offering deeper character exploration and an intricate power shift that reshapes everything we thought we knew. I’m eager to see where the story goes next!
Book 2 picked up directly where book 1 left off with a choice that changed the course of both the FMC and the MMC's lives. And let me tell you, the emotional rollercoaster their journey took me on throughout this book was suspenseful and exhilarating with life threatening situations, heartbreaking secrets revealed and tender moments to heal the soul.
The heat was turned up in this book with a few spicy scenes that were so beautifully written, you could feel the underlying emotions of the characters as they grew between them.
The ending of this book had a shocking revelation that resulted in a plan for revenge and an epic announcement that is sure to be felt amongst both kingdoms.
Ugh, I'm in love with this series! E.D. Lee has a way of writing that is so poetic and so emotionally grabbing you just sink right into the characters hearts.
This book had me all over the place with emotions. At one point I'm pretty sure I was chanting "Vrea, Vrea, Vrea" It was great to see some vengeance being served but I can't wait for the next book and hopefully we will get to see the ultimate revenge be served!
Picks up right where book 1 ends. Umm...yeah... read Nightingale before this one. If you don't, you will be lost. Warring kingdoms/families, forbidden love, 🌶️, everything you could possibly want in a romantasy is in this book! Loved it! Ella's best writing yet! I was sent an ARC for the purposes of an honest review
I was offered an opportunity to read an advanced copy of Nightmare, and I highly recommend this sequel to Nightingale. Nightingale ended with our White Knight sauntering into Vasthold unannounced and uninvited. Presenting an offer to exchange himself for Rian in servitude, he resigned himself to being Vrea's slave, much to Vrea's dismay. As the days pass, Castil and Vrea begin to understand each other, and their hostile relationship becomes one of camaraderie. Vrea starts to feel her heart changing from one of revenge and anger to what may possibly be love. While there is plenty of plotting afoot, both without and within, quarrels to be settled, and igniting flames of passion, Nightmare kept me engaged and turning the page to see what was going to happen next, what new information is going to come to light, I needed to know! Beginning to go down the rabbit hole that is Castil and his past has me needing to see his revenge exacted on those that have harmed him, there are dark, evil atrocities, that have happened to this man. There is another cliffhanger that you'll have to wait for the next book to complete, but it'll be worth it!
The story of Vrea continues book two. She is back in her home with a new development this time. In this book, we now see an up close and personal view of Vrea's life once she's back home and the deepening of her relationship with Castil. Oh how the tables have turned. Expect to cry, scream, and giggle throughout this entire book! I know i did.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
The second book in this series and it sucked me in. I enjoyed getting to see the other side and their customs. Watching the relationship between Vrea and Castil was a journey in itself. This book definitely held some surprises I didn’t see coming and that ending definitely leaves me wanting more! I can’t wait to read the next book in this series!
I bounced between 4 and 5 stars. It do well written and the characters are awesome. The only reason I bounced back and forth was because I wanted a certain one to suffer more 🤭
1000/100. Crying. Screaming. Rage. Love. My emotions are all over the place. Did I pick this book up today and finish it in the same day. Yes. Yes I did. Am I addicted to Ella’s writing. Why yes I am. Am I addicted to the story of the nightingale and her white knight. Yes I am. Holy crap. Book one was amazing. This second book top tier. From feuding siblings to collars and spice had me on my knees. There may not be any magic in this book but it doesn’t need it! The book and writing is magic itself. Be forwarded there is torture and abuse in this book read your trigger warnings. But I can tell you 100% worth it. To watch as a man would lay himself bare to save one woman I will never get over. The things castil had to endure and the things he did to keep Vrea alive, I would burn the world for Castil Moordian! He has made it to number one of the book boyfriend list. From betrayal, to death, to siblings having to kill each other for a throne to kingdoms warring with each other it has it all and it has that love and friendship that’s formed that you will be screaming for! And the revelations that were revealed whew, blew my mind! If you love a good story with betrayal, fantasy vibes, an epic love story, spice, and a few duals. Go start this series and then read this book once released on April 11th. You will be in for a whirlwind of surprises and it won’t disappoint! 😍
What a ride this book was and what a cliffhanger! I can't wait to read what happens next! I LOVE Castil and Vrea so much. I even found a new character to love in this book and three to hate even more than I already did (which is a compliment 😂).
Wow! This book did not disappoint! I was lucky enough to read the first two books in The Broken Kingdom series back to back as ARCs, and I could not put them down—10 hours all together, zero regrets!
The betrayal, murder, and deviousness continue, but the romance? Even better with multiple love interests that will leave you obsessed. This dark fantasy romance is packed with twists, tension, and emotions that will wreck you in the best way.
Just when you think you have all the answers from Nightingale, this book leaves you with even more questions leading into Nightbane (Book 3). The wait for the next one is already unbearable!
“Nightmare” is an exceptional continuation of the series, offering a wealth of memorable moments and unexpected twists that keep readers engaged. The narrative is infused with intense and passionate scenes that heighten the emotional experience. Throughout the book, I found myself captivated, gasping and awed by the unfolding events. The conclusion is nothing short of perfect, leaving me eagerly anticipating the next installment in this thrilling series.
ED Lee is a master of suspense. Initially, I was unsure who I was rooting for, Castel or Rian, but this book made up my mind. I was so happy things are starting to look up for them. I also HATED Eamin. He got what he deserved! Now, I just have to try to be patient until the next ARC is available!
I was happy to have read this as an ARC! I ate this book up!! I have been team Castil since Book 1 and this book was ALL about Castil and I loved it!!😍 We are transported to Vrea's home, which is so different from Castil's. Everything is described to perfection! I could see myself in this new part of this world. I fell in love with these characters all over again and their stories just sucked me in. I could not put this book down!! The flashbacks I absolutely loved and they gave so much depth to the characters. And the spicy scenes....the spicy scenes were to die for! Like *chef's kiss*. A must read!! And the cliffhanger will have you begging for book 3!!
Probably the best continuation of a story line!! Vrea and Castil are such amazing characters.. Ella did a fabulous job with this and now I need Nightbane like yesterday!! Seriously if you want a series you can’t put down this is it!!!
The eagerly anticipated sequel to Nightingale. I didn't think I would like this more than the first installment but I was quickly proven wrong. There were several moments in the novel that had me gasping or on the edge of my seat until there was a resolution. Not many books or authors can do that, but Ms. Lee has succeeded in this instance. I absolutely cannot wait for the third installment after finishing this one.
The saga continues with Castil now enslaved to Vrea. Rian had captured her heart, and knowing what her family does to Moordian slaves, Vrea was relieved it wasn’t him in chains. But Castil isn’t what he seemed at first either. And as she gets to know him, she wonders if maybe she misjudged him as well.
These characters are going through so much growth in these books. Vrea is rethinking everything about her life, and Castil is suffering because, well, Castil kind of likes to suffer. But he’s also the best sweetest emo prince of silver ever.
It’s so interesting to see how the Greenvass family lives compared to the Moordians in this book. While they’re different in some aspects, they’re also really similar in others. There are also some huge secrets that get revealed here, and the plot gets advanced in a lot of ways. It sets up the third book so perfectly. I really love this series!
Book 2 of the series definitely had more substance to it. Book one set up the world building but in this book we got a lot more background into the characters. I still feel like this is a unique storyline even going into the second book. The characters are well developed and yes there’s still spice, romance and plenty of drama. I admit I started book 3 before I got to this review and no spoilers BUT omg. Can’t wait to finish the series!
I’m sad that I gave this a low rating but unfortunately It took a lot for me to get into this book. At first I was quite confused because we got 3-4 chapters of a flash back to something that happened way before the first book so that confused me and I was unsure if I was reading the correct book. After we got through all that to the actual story and what was currently happening it was good. I am very glad that Vrea and Castil are together going through his capture together. I did not expect the twists that were in this and look forward to reading the next book to see what happens next.
This has been a wonderful series for my 1st time ARC reading! After Nightingale, I needed this book! I have been and still am Team Castil, and this book was all about him. In Nightingale, Vrea is the caged song bird, In Nighmare, Castil is the slave to Vrea. Ella did great linking the books, although you start out with a backstory of the dynamic between Castil and Vrea instead of a continuation of where you left off. You understand why Castil was so headstrong about keeping Vrea alive and how Rian used Vrea. You watch the relationship that Vrea didn't want to acknowledge for what it was for the White Knight blossom. You find out if you didn't already know how nefarious the king actually is. I ate this book up and can't wait till book 3.
I am really enjoying this series, but frequently while reading I feel like I am missing major parts to this story. I wish they were longer with more backstory.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
In this emotionally rich and morally complex fantasy, readers are drawn into a world where power, loyalty, and love intertwine in ways that defy expectation. Vrea, once driven by the singular desire to control the White Knight, Castil Moordian, finds herself at a crossroads when her long-held wishes come true—but not in the way she imagined.
Castil's self-imposed enslavement, a sacrifice made to protect his younger brother Rian, sets the stage for a deeply intimate power dynamic that Knightly handles with nuance and restraint. As Vrea grapples with her authority over Castil, the story unfolds into an exploration of emotional conflict, shifting loyalties, and the fragile boundaries between affection and control.
What begins as a tale of vengeance and dominance evolves into something more vulnerable and unexpected. As Vrea chips away at Castil’s emotional armor, she’s forced to confront her own motivations—was it ever truly about Rian, or has her heart quietly turned toward the man she thought she wanted only as a pawn?
With lyrical prose and beautifully layered characters, this novel challenges traditional tropes of romance and power, offering readers a slow-burn journey of emotional awakening and moral reckoning.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – A captivating tale of sacrifice, shifting desires, and the complicated truth of what it means to truly see—and be seen.
I am TELLING you, E. D. Lee puts drugs in her books. The way I devoured this book. It was like ACOTAR vs ACOMAF. Meaning, you read book one and you're like "ooo this is good can't wait to see what happens." then BAM. Book 2 is your whole personality now. Book 2, nothing can beat. I could not put it down. The absolute trauma these characters go through, the YEARNING, the “I’ll destroy all for you”, the absolute hate to love, assassins, royalty, paving your own path forward, the claiming, the angst.
I don’t want to give too much away in book two because A LOT happens but Vera’s character growth explodes in this book. It’s her finally realizing what she’s worth and what she wants. Same with Castil (He WILL be protected!!). Ella also adds a trauma/ trauma response that not a lot of authors cover and it’s done well.
Let me just leave you with these quotes: “I will either have all of you, or I will have none of you. But I will not have a piece of you.”
“You’re mine, Nightingale.” He murmured and kissed her harder. “If you want to be mine for all eternity, then I will never claim another.”
Name of Book: Nightmare Author: E.D. Lee Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
So after reading Nightengale I was anxiously awaiting the next book. And E.D. Lee definitely didn’t disappoint with Nightmare. Nightmare is an exceptional continuation of the series, offering up a wealth of memorable moments and unexpected twists and turns that keep me engaged and anxious to see what was happening next. The narrative of the book is infused with intense and very passionate scenes that heightened the emotional experience at least for me it did. For the start of the book, I found myself captivated, gasping and in complete awe by the unfolding events in the book. The conclusion is nothing short of perfection, leaving me on the edge of my seat and eagerly anticipating the next part in this amazing series. Be sure to check the TW’s to make sure this book is right for you.